Quality

Smart sensors, powerful components and why testing makes a difference

August 12, 2025
6 min reading time
Gerard Brouwers
Smart sensors, powerful components and why testing makes a difference

Today's cars are full of smart technology. Under the hood, countless sensors and electronic components work together to regulate engine performance, emissions, fuel economy and safety. They are indispensable, but also sensitive: just one faulty component can lead to fault codes, loss of power or downtime.

At Auto Elect we know how important it is that these components function reliably. That's why we extensively test every one that leaves our workshop - from sensors to auxiliary pumps - in our own facilities. That way, mechanics can be sure they have a part in their hands that not only works, but keeps working.

NOx sensor: guardian of emissions

Especially in modern diesel engines, the NOx sensor plays a crucial role. It measures the amount of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gases and transmits it to the AdBlue/SCR system. If the sensor does not work properly, this quickly leads to malfunctions, power limitations or a noticeably high AdBlue consumption.

In our test bench, we check whether the sensor measures accurately, whether the built-in heater works and whether communication via the CAN bus is flawless. This prevents a customer from coming back with the same complaint.

EGR valve: the key to cleaner combustion

The EGR valve (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) allows some of the exhaust gas to flow back into the engine. This makes combustion cleaner and reduces NOx emissions. But dirt build-up, a faulty actuator or a valve that sticks can lead to emergency running and restless engine behavior.

Our tests measure opening and closing values, responsiveness and electronic control. We see it often: a well-tested reconditioned EGR valve prevents a lot of diagnostic frustration.

MAF sensor: the breathing of the engine

The MAF sensor (air masseter) determines how much air enters the engine. Based on this, the ECU calculates how much fuel is needed. If this sensor transmits incorrect values, the engine can run too rich or too lean. The result? Loss of power, higher consumption, smoke or even starting problems.

At Auto Elect, we check the accuracy of measurements under different air flows and look at the stability and speed of the signal. An MAF that passes our test literally gives the engine air again.

EPB sensors and actuators: new product group with great potential

Electronic parking brakes make life easier, but if the actuator or sensor falters, it can cause serious problems: a brake that sticks, error messages in the dashboard or uneven braking.

The EPB modules form a relatively new product group in our program. We have therefore recently expanded our testing procedures to fully screen these components as well. Not only do we check the electrical control, but also the feedback signals and the mechanical freewheel. This way you can be sure that the car can be stopped safely again - and that it can start again on time.

Electric auxiliary pumps: silent force behind cooling

In many modern cars, electric water auxiliary pumps continue to work even after the engine is turned off. They cool turbochargers, battery packs or engine components and are essential for thermal management. A failure can lead to overheating, leaks or expensive consequential damage.

We measure pump capacity, control, CAN communication and perform leak tests. This gives the workshop a pump that is not only quiet, but also reliable.

More than testing: improving where it can

Sometimes we discover during testing that a component has a structural weakness. Thanks to our reverse engineering we can solve that in the design. The result: a revision part that performs at least as well - and often better - than the original.

Why Auto Elect?

Our customers choose us because we test each part individually, deliver directly from stock and are always ready with technical support. We offer clear documentation and a retest service when in doubt. This saves returns, prevents error codes and keeps workshops running.

In short: Whether it's an NOx sensor, EGR valve, MAF sensor, EPB module or electric auxiliary pump - at Auto Elect, no part goes out the door without a thorough quality check. This allows mechanics to work with confidence and customers to hit the road with peace of mind.

📞 Want to know more about our testing process or our product range? Feel free to get in touch. Our team is happy to think with you about the best solution for your workshop.